Seven steps are all it takes to walk down the road to residency

The road to US medical residency is long and difficult whether you are a US IMG or Non-US IMG. It is important that IMG residency candidates are aware of the official residency services and other helpful resources available throughout the residency application process.

Sign Up
Medical Heart Puzzle

1 Register with ECFMG®

ECFMG is the main advocate and provider of IMG services. ECFMG acts as a Dean’s Office for IMGs and is where IMGs can purchase ERAS Tokens. You will need to be ECFMG certified to start a residency.

2 Take USMLE® Exams:

All residency candidates must take the USMLE Step 1 and USMLE Step 2 CK exams in order to begin a residency position. IMGs must take USMLE exams in time to become ECFMG Certified.

3 Register with AAMC®

Home of ERAS and other medical career information, starting from pre-medical school through Fellowships.

4 Start Researching Programs

Researching residency programs before applications begin can be time-consuming and frustrating. Utilize helpful resources such as Match A Resident for completing your program research quickly and easily. Access Customized Residency Program Lists with a focus on IMG-relevant information as well as free residency guidance.

5 Purchase Token and Register to ERAS

ERAS is the main residency application website where candidates put together their applications, search and select programs, and apply. In order to register for ERAS, you will need to obtain a Token from ECFMG.

6 Complete Supporting Documents

The ERAS Residency Application has many written components such as the MyERAS Common Application and the Personal Statement. If writing isn’t your strong suit, and you want to make sure your residency Personal Statement shines, consider using a professional Personal Statement service.

7 Register with NRMP®

NRMP, Home of The Match®, allows you to rank programs after the interview period and participate in the Main Residency Match® and Post-Match SOAP® You can register to NRMP from mid-September until the Rank Order List Deadline in late February.